“For the second straight year, the Republican led General Assembly advanced our legislative priorities, crafted a conservative and responsible state budget, and worked diligently to complete its work ahead of schedule. While Washington remains mired in gridlock, in Virginia we continue to effectively govern and lead. By adjourning early, Virginia taxpayers will save over $25,000.

“Our two year state budget reflects the priorities of the Commonwealth. The budget is conservative and responsible, reduces borrowing, eliminates state liabilities and charts a responsible course of the future. We made a significant investment into K-12 education, $73 million more than originally proposed by Governor McAuliffe, and increased flexibility for local school divisions. We also invested over $114 million to hold down tuition costs for Virginia families. The budget makes strategic investments into economic development efforts, but adds additional oversight to ensure that all taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

“The House of Delegates continues to offer positive solutions on the issues that matter most to Virginians. We advanced a legislative agenda to grow Virginia’s economy and create good jobs, improve our schools so all children have the opportunity to succeed, and improve access and lower costs in healthcare. We defended and advanced conservative principles, securing the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding gun owners and passing legislation to protect religious liberty.

“Washington and Richmond are only 90 miles apart on the map, but we are worlds apart when it comes to governing. As a citizen legislator, the Virginia General Assembly gets the work of the people done in a timely fashion so we can return home to our communities where we work, live, and raise our families. And unlike Washington, we balance our budget, keep taxes low, and don’t kick the can down the road.

“This was a productive and successful General Assembly session for the people of the Commonwealth.”

Related

Books from AFP

UVA Basketball finished the 2017-18 season ranked at the top of the national polls. Augusta Free Press editor Chris Graham offers his insight and analysis on the 2018-19 'Hoos, breaking down the roster, the legacy of coach Tony Bennett, and how the loss to UMBC could fuel a run through March Madness next spring.

Chris Graham offers a glimpse behind the curtain of the pro wrestling business in his new book, The Worst Wrestling Pay-Per-View Ever, the inside story of the 2011 Night of Legends, a live pay-per-view event featuring stars including WWE Hall of Famers Kevin Nash, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan and The Rock 'n Roll Express that was met with almost universally negative reviews.

Mad About U: Four Decades of at University Hall is a comprehensive book covering the players, coaches and memories of University Hall at the University of Virginia. Join us as we look back at the memories from more than 40 years in U Hall.